Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Located in the Trikuta Hills of Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, the temple attracts millions of devotees every year.
The shrine, at an altitude of 5,200 feet, requires a 13 km trek from Katra. It houses three Pindis representing Goddess Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati. The temple is famous for its peaceful ambiance and vibrant kirtans, and with Mathura Taxi Service, your trip is made smooth and convenient.
| Event | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Open (Daily) | 24 hours (Open all year round) |
| Morning Aarti | 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM |
| Evening Aarti | 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM |
| Mode of Transport | Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (50 km from Katra). Regular taxis and buses are available. |
| By Train | Nearest Station: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station, well-connected to major cities. |
| By Road | Katra is well-connected via Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH 44). Regular buses and taxis from Jammu and nearby cities. |
| Helicopter Services | Helicopter services from Katra to Sanjichhat (near the shrine). Advance booking recommended. |
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| On Foot | Traditional 13 km trek from Katra to Bhawan. Well-paved path with facilities. |
| Ponies & Palkis | Ponies, palkis (palanquins), and porters available for assistance during the trek. |
| Battery Cars | Available for elderly and differently-abled from Ardhkuwari to Bhawan (Limited service). |
| Helicopter | Helicopter from Katra to Sanjichhat, followed by a 2.5 km walk to the shrine. |
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Trek to the Holy Shrine | Undertake the 13 km trek from Katra to Bhawan amidst scenic views of the Trikuta Hills. |
| Attend Aarti | Participate in the morning (6 AM) and evening Aarti (6 PM) for a spiritually uplifting experience. |
| Visit Ardhkuwari Cave | Stopover shrine where Mata Vaishno Devi meditated for 9 months. Located 6 km from Katra. |
| Darshan at Bhairavnath Temple | Trek 2 km further after visiting the main shrine to Bhairavnath Temple, essential to complete the pilgrimage. |
| Enjoy Helicopter Ride | Opt for a helicopter ride from Katra to Sanjichhat for a unique aerial view of the hills. |
| Shopping at Katra | Explore local markets for prasad, souvenirs, and traditional handicrafts. |
| Stay at Bhawan | Book accommodations at the shrine or nearby guest houses for an overnight spiritual experience. |
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Yatra Registration | Mandatory Yatra Registration Slip required, available online at Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. |
| Accommodation | Shrine Board accommodations are available at Katra, Ardhkuwari, and Bhawan. Private hotels are also available in Katra. |
| Weather Conditions | March to October is ideal due to pleasant weather. Winters (Nov-Feb) can be extremely cold with snowfall. |
| Best Time to Visit | Navratri festivals (March-April and Sept-Oct) are peak seasons with grand celebrations. |
| Safety & Medical Facilities | Medical aid centers and oxygen points are available along the route. |
| Locker & Cloakroom Facilities | Available at Katra and Bhawan for storing personal belongings. |
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